In an effort to tackle Nebraska’s growing workforce housing shortage, BonnaVilla, a division of Chief Industries, has partnered with Progressive Builders of Norfolk, Nebraska, to construct a new modular home in Schuyler. This project marks the beginning of what both companies hope will be a long-term collaboration to bring efficient and affordable housing solutions to the region.
Kelby Herman, owner of Progressive Builders, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “This partnership with BonnaVilla allows us to address workforce housing challenges in a way that’s both innovative and practical. With modular homes, we can complete projects more quickly and efficiently, ultimately helping more communities across Nebraska.”
BonnaVilla has been manufacturing modular homes in Aurora, Nebraska, since 1970, bringing decades of experience to the table. As a division of Chief Industries — a third-generation, family-owned company based in Grand Island — BonnaVilla staff members are committed to quality and Midwestern values.
“Progressive Builders shares our commitment to quality and community,” said Mike Morrow, general manager of BonnaVilla. “Together, we aim to make a real difference in addressing the housing needs of Nebraska’s workforce.”
The first home, located in Schuyler, will be a three-bedroom, two-bath property with over 1,400 square feet of living space and a full basement. This model serves as a blueprint for future developments planned in Norfolk, Columbus, Fremont and Wayne.
Modular construction offers a compelling solution to the industry’s challenges. By prefabricating much of the structure in BonnaVilla’s factory, the process reduces on-site construction time and costs — key advantages in areas where resources are limited. Progressive Builders sees this as an opportunity to take on more projects across the region and deliver housing more efficiently.
“This is just the beginning,” Herman said. “We envision a future where modular construction plays a key role in building vibrant communities across Nebraska.”
Modular homes provide innovation, adaptability and sustainability. Unlike traditional on-site construction, these homes are built in carefully controlled factory environments, with each segment crafted to exact specifications before being transported and assembled at the final location. This streamlined method not only speeds up the building process but also ensures superior precision, consistent quality and heightened efficiency. At BonnaVilla, this advanced approach enables the creation of a versatile selection of modular homes designed to meet diverse preferences and needs.
With BonnaVilla’s long-standing expertise in modular homebuilding and Progressive Builders’ dedication to affordable housing, the collaboration aims to create impactful solutions to Nebraska’s workforce housing needs.
For more information, please visit bonnavilla.com.

